The XP OS isn't so much the issue of corruption, but the Hard Disk file format, NTFS or FAT32. In early builds of XP or updates from earlier versions it used FAT32, which isn't as resilient as NTFS for preventing corruption on these power off shutdowns.

Buy a small UPS (Uninterruptable Power Supply) which is great for protection against power spikes and power outs. If you hit the mains power switch the UPS takes over and you can simply switch the main power back on. In the UK where I am we have lots of thunderstorms and power outs and my UPS allows me to save what I was doing and shut down the system cleanly in the event of a power out.

Only corruption that can happen is because of the data inside memory, be it RAM or HDD cache. If data written is incomplete or lost entirely, you can corrupt partitions or files. Or even make system unbootable in rare cases. If possible, shut it off properly, but in general from a hardware perspective, it doesn't really matter.

Only corruption that can happen is because of the data inside memory, be it RAM or HDD cache. If data written is incomplete or lost entirely, you can corrupt partitions or files. Or even make system unbootable in rare cases. If possible, shut it off properly, but in general from a hardware perspective, it doesn't really matter.

+1 to that.

Always "try" to shut down properly. I've had a few that were taking too long and I was being impatient so I shut them off by holding the power button. A not so nice surprise was waiting for me when the machine was turned back on again.

The XP OS isn't so much the issue of corruption, but the Hard Disk file format, NTFS or FAT32. In early builds of XP or updates from earlier versions it used FAT32, which isn't as resilient as NTFS for preventing corruption on these power off shutdowns.

Buy a small UPS (Uninterruptable Power Supply) which is great for protection against power spikes and power outs. If you hit the mains power switch the UPS takes over and you can simply switch the main power back on. In the UK where I am we have lots of thunderstorms and power outs and my UPS allows me to save what I was doing and shut down the system cleanly in the event of a power out.

I take that UPS idea. I guess I will get one myself.

Thanks everyone for your feedback

Yup, sometimes XPs refuse to shut down even after an hour. So I also hard press the power button to shut it down.

But I am more worried about my real time security softwares. Don't they run in the memory?

I have had my Belkin one for around 6 years and it has saved my a** on many occasions. I really need to get a new battery for it (they say replace after three years), but it is almost cheaper to get a new unit.

I have had my Belkin one for around 6 years and it has saved my a** on many occasions. I really need to get a new battery for it (they say replace after three years), but it is almost cheaper to get a new unit.

Absolutely agree with that advise. I have UPS's on all main systems (and on my home theater equipment).

As for the battery prices, I'll agree as well, but I think they do that just to keep sales up. However, you can usually find battery replacements at local battery warehouses. You just need to call them up or visit the store with the battery so they can cross reference the numbers.

I have had power failures shut down my computer when I was in the middle of things. Never had a problem restarting. Of course, I am connected to a surge protector.__________________http://www.fupagames.com/shahmeerkhan90/info/